Accreditation OverviewWhat are the requirements of ACS accreditation? Philosophical requirements: Evidence of a clear understanding of the nature and purpose of a classical education and an incorporation of that understanding in the school’s operating documents and public statements Academic requirements: A clearly articulated statement of the school’s academic goals at every level and a clear process of ensuring the achieving those goals Curricular requirements: Full or partial implementation of the Latin-centered Classical Core Program Methodological requirements: Demonstration of an understanding of the importance of traditional, teacher-directed instruction in the classroom and a process by which those methodologies are communicated to school staff Assessment requirements: Demonstration of the value-added benefit of the school’s academic program through standardized test scores and compliance with ACS’s regular process of reporting test scores Doctrinal requirements: A doctrinal statement consisting of the Nicene Creed or a statement of belief consistent with the Nicene Creed.[1] Other Information Required from Schools: A copy of current school bylaws (for existing schools only) List of staff and faculty which includes grades and subjects taught and level of education List of books and resources used in current curriculum A statement of faith consisting of or consistent with the Nicene Creed and verification…

Classical Core Curriculum

The Classical Core Curriculum™ was developed at Highlands Latin School in Louisville, KY. After teaching the mastery of basic skills and classical children’s literature in the primary grades, its dual focus is on the intellectual skills of the liberal arts and the cultural content of the great books from 3rd through 12th grade.

Early Reading & Spelling

A common-sense approach to phonics offering mastery rather than frustration and laying the foundation for higher order reading skills.

Penmanship & Copywork

Instruction in cursive writing to improve fine-motor skills, writing speed, self-discipline, spelling, and reading — creating a professional quality in a student’s penmanship.

Mathematics

A true mastery of arithmetic skills through repeated drill and practice of the concrete operations that help lay the foundation for the more advanced and abstract thinking skills of algebra, geometry, and calculus.

Latin

The foundation for learning modern languages, developing vocabulary and English grammar skills, and learning how to think critically.

Traditional Logic

Training in the meaning and classification of words, the truth of statements, and the validity of arguments to teach students how to defend their ideas and values.

Classical Rhetoric

Instruction in the art of persuasion through the study of the kinds of persuasive speech, the ways in which people are persuaded, and the structure of persuasive speech.

The Humanities

A study of the vocabulary, history, geography, and literature that underlie the great achievements of Western civilization including an exposure to classical art, music, and poetry.

Nature & Science

The basic vocabulary, logic, and observational skills that train students to appreciate the wonder and mystery of creation.

Christian Studies

A study of the history, geography, and the teachings of the Old and New Testaments.